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Football Official Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Officiate youth flag football games in accordance with NFL FLAG rules and league guidelines ... This position is a great opportunity for experienced officials, student-athletes, coaches, teachers ...

... flag football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball. With our focus on fun, safety ... Job Summary The Official is a critical role on any sports field; responsible for enforcing rules ...

... flag football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball. With our focus on fun, safety ... Job Summary The Official is a critical role on any sports field; responsible for enforcing rules ...

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Football Official Referee information

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$6

$20

$58

How much do football official referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for football official referee in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a football official referee?

Football official referees are trained professionals responsible for enforcing the rules of the game during football matches. They ensure fair play, make decisions on fouls, goals, and other important aspects of the game, and maintain order on the field. Referees work alongside assistant referees and other officials to manage the match efficiently. Their decisions are based on the official laws of the game and their own judgment, aiming to uphold the integrity of the sport.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a football official referee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Football Official Referee, you need a deep understanding of the game's rules, strong decision-making abilities, and often certification from a recognized officiating body. Familiarity with communication systems such as referee headsets and proficiency in digital scoring or reporting tools are commonly required. Exceptional focus, integrity, and clear communication help referees manage players, coaches, and high-pressure situations. These skills ensure the game is conducted fairly, safely, and in accordance with established rules, maintaining the integrity of the sport.

What are some common challenges faced by football official referees during a match, and how can they effectively handle them?

Football Official Referees often face high-pressure situations, such as making quick decisions on fouls or offside calls while managing intense reactions from players, coaches, and fans. Maintaining composure, clear communication, and strict adherence to the rules are essential for managing these challenges. Building strong teamwork with assistant referees and using pre-match briefings to clarify roles can help ensure smooth coordination and accurate decision-making throughout the game.

What is the difference between Football Official Referee vs Football Umpire?

AspectFootball Official RefereeFootball Umpire
CredentialsReferee certification, training coursesUmpire certification, training courses
Work EnvironmentOn-field, central position overseeing gameOn-field, usually along the sidelines or behind the goal
Employer & IndustryLeagues, associations, schoolsLeagues, associations, schools

Both Football Official Referees and Football Umpires require certification and work on the field during games. Referees typically have a central position overseeing the entire game, while Umpires assist from the sidelines or behind the goals. They serve similar roles within the football industry, ensuring fair play and enforcing rules.

How much do football official referees get paid?

Football official referees typically earn between $20 and $100 per game, depending on the level of competition and their experience. Higher-level referees, such as those officiating professional or college games, can earn several thousand dollars annually through game fees, certifications, and additional assignments.

What cities are hiring for Football Official Referee jobs?

Cities with the most Football Official Referee job openings:

What states have the most Football Official Referee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Football Official Referee jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Football Official Referee jobs?

For Football Official Referee jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Football Official Referee job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

NFL Flag Referee

Denver, CO • On-site

Part-time, Contractor

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Employment Type: Part-Time, Seasonal, 1099 Independent Contractor
Minimum Age: 17
Season: Mid-September through mid-November 2026
Schedule: Fridays and Sundays based on league location
Locations: Denver metro area and surrounding Colorado communities

Assignments will be based on league needs, referee availability, experience, location preference, and proximity to each league location. Applicants may be considered for one or multiple locations.

Position Overview

Colorado NFL Flag is seeking dependable, level-headed, and professional referees to officiate youth flag football games during the Fall 2026 season.

NFL FLAG Referees play an essential role in creating a safe, fair, competitive, and enjoyable game-day experience for young athletes, volunteer coaches, and families. Referees are responsible for enforcing league rules, monitoring player safety, promoting sportsmanship, managing game conduct, and making timely and impartial decisions on the field.

The ideal candidate communicates confidently, remains composed during challenging situations, works well as part of a team, and demonstrates sound judgment and professionalism. Previous officiating experience is preferred but not required.

This is a seasonal, part-time, 1099 independent contractor opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

  • Officiate youth flag football games in accordance with NFL FLAG rules and league guidelines.

  • Promote player safety, fair competition, and good sportsmanship.

  • Make timely and impartial decisions involving penalties, scoring plays, out-of-bounds calls, and other game situations.

  • Monitor game play and address rule violations appropriately.

  • Manage player and coach conduct in a calm, respectful, and professional manner.

  • Address unsportsmanlike behavior and on-field disagreements without escalating the situation.

  • Communicate clearly with players, volunteer coaches, parents, Field Managers, league staff, and fellow officials.

  • Accurately record final scores and report game results to the Field Manager.

  • Assist with field and equipment setup or cleanup when needed.

  • Follow all referee uniform and equipment requirements.

  • Complete and maintain required NFL FLAG certification and league training.

  • Remain current on league rules, procedures, and officiating expectations.

  • Attend weekly referee calls or review the weekly call recording during the season.

  • Maintain reliable availability for assigned game days.

  • Officiate divisional tournaments and other scheduled league events when assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • Must be at least 17 years old.

  • Able to work as a 1099 independent contractor.

  • Level-headed, dependable, and professional.

  • Able to remain calm and make fair decisions in fast-paced or challenging situations.

  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.

  • Able to interact respectfully and impartially with children, coaches, parents, and staff.

  • Reliable transportation to assigned league locations.

  • Available to work assigned Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays during the Fall 2026 season.

  • Willing to complete required NFL FLAG certification and league training.

  • Able to attend weekly referee calls or review the recorded call each week.

  • Physically able to stand, walk, jog, and run throughout multiple games.

  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying Colorado weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience officiating football, flag football, or another sport.

  • Knowledge of football or flag football rules and game procedures.

  • Current NFL FLAG certification or comparable officiating certification.

  • Experience working with children, families, coaches, or youth sports organizations.

  • CPR or First Aid certification is a plus.

Compensation and Professional Development

  • Compensation is provided on a 1099 independent contractor basis.

  • Opportunities may be available to officiate additional regular-season games, tournaments, camps, and special events.

  • Low-cost or no-cost training opportunities may be available for qualified candidates.

  • Additional assignments may be available based on performance, reliability, league needs, and availability.

Why Join Colorado NFL Flag?

This position is a great opportunity for experienced officials, student-athletes, coaches, teachers, sports professionals, and individuals looking to gain experience in youth sports.

You will have the opportunity to:

  • Support the development of young athletes.

  • Build leadership, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.

  • Gain or expand sports officiating experience.

  • Work in an active and team-oriented environment.

  • Be considered for additional games, tournaments, and special events.

If you are dependable, confident, fair-minded, and passionate about creating a positive youth sports experience, we encourage you to apply.

Join Colorado NFL Flag and help us deliver a safe, competitive, and enjoyable Fall 2026 season for athletes and families across Colorado.


Employment Type: Contract
Years Experience: 1 - 3 years
Salary: $20 - $35 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: No